RJD chief Lalu Prasad, in an interview to Ashok Mishra, predicts his party's alliance with JD(U) and Congress would lead to rout of BJP in the forthcoming by-polls and assembly polls next year. Excerpts

How do you look at the JD(U)-RJD alliance prospect ?

Lalu Prasad: It is the need of the hour. Mandal forces will have to unite to trounce kamandal and communal politics of BJP. Our apprehension that the country might disintegrate is turning out to be true. The whole country has seen how a fasting Muslim was forced to eat by a Shiva Sena MP. They have captured power by duping the people and now they want to force their communal agenda on the people. The alliance is to save the country.

Can RJD-JD(U) halt BJP's march?

Lalu Prasad: BJP will catapult under our collective strength. In the Lok Sabha elections, RJD and Congress garnered around 30% votes. Adding 15% JD(U) votes would be much more than what NDA secured. BJP will just be blown away.

What about BJP's accusation JD(U)-RJD if voted back would see return of 'jungle raj'?

Lalu Prasad:BJP leaderSushil Kumar Modi who said this has restarted employing the same language after RJD strategically supported the JD(U) government. He has caused incalculable damage to Bihar with his rhetoric.

What is your take on BJP's slogan, 'after giving us kurta, people should gift pyjama too' by electing a NDA government in Bihar?

Lalu Prasad: What will then happen to their half trousers? They believe in RSS culture and happy wearing half pants.

Is not RJD-JD(U) tie-up an unnatural alliance, given years of hostility between you and Nitish?

Lalu Prasad: BJP is actually disturbed that we have united in Bihar and are therefore making such claims.

What do you think will be the outcome in the 10 by-polls?

Lalu Prasad: RJD, JD(U) and Congress will contest the by-elections together. Those people who said that seat adjustments will be a problem must be shocked. The Mandal express has already embarked on its journey. Bihar's political experiment will be replicated in other states to trounce the communal forces. Even Mayawati and Mulayam Singh Yadav should come together to protect the unity of the country.